Symptoms

Most thyroid nodules don't cause signs or symptoms. Occasionally, however, some nodules become so large that they can:

Be felt

Be seen, often as a swelling at the base of your neck

Press on your windpipe or esophagus, causing shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing

In some cases, thyroid nodules produce additional thyroxine, a hormone secreted by your thyroid gland. The extra thyroxine can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as:

Unexplained weight loss

Intolerance to heat

Tremor

Nervousness

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

A few thyroid nodules are cancerous (malignant), but it's difficult to tell which nodules are malignant by symptoms alone. Although size isn't a predictor of whether a nodule is malignant or not, cancerous thyroid tumors are more likely to be large fixed masses that grow quickly.

When to see a doctor

Although most thyroid nodules are noncancerous (benign) and don't cause problems, ask your doctor to evaluate any unusual swelling in your neck, especially if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. It's important to evaluate the possibility of cancer.

Also seek medical care if you develop signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as:

Sudden weight loss even though your appetite is normal or has increased

Approach to the patient with a thyroid nodule. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/endocrine_and_metabolic_disorders/thyroid_disorders/approach_to_the_patient_with_a_thyroid_nodule.html?qt=4.%09Approach to the patient with a thyroid nodule&alt=sh. Accessed Nov. 18, 2013.

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